CANCELED:MST from Cold Prong-Trout Lake

Type of Outing: Hike
When: SAT 5/31/2025
Signup Deadline: 5/30/2025 5:00 pm
Leader: Mike Sprague
Distance: 12 miles
Difficulty: R-33, Strenuous
Elevation Gain: 2,000 ft.
Description: Please join me for a 12-mile hike on the MST from Cold Prong Lake to Trout Lake. This is a hike along the parkway which include the best parts of the Boone Fork Trail without having to walk thru the picnic area or the camp ground. My understanding is that the parkway is open from 321 to beacon heights so we should not have any problem accessing the trailheads of this hike. The hike starts with a couple of miles thru the woods and up over an open ridge and fields. It then joins the Boone Fork Trail where there are several stream crossings and a brief detour to Hebron Falls. From there we will cross Boone Fork Creek, walk through a pretty open woods filled with ferns and possibly wild flowers, and eventually climb to near the top of Rich Mountain. There are some very nice views looking north and east on the side of Rich Mountain which make it worth the climb. The hike finishes by descending to Trout Lake for a brief walk along the lake to the parking area. The total elevation gain for the hike is approximately 2000 feet. This will be a one way hike so there will be a short car shuttle along the parkway. Let me know if are willing to be a car shuttle driver. Call or email Mike Sprague for details on meet up time and possible carpooling. 12 miles, 2000 ft elev. [R-33]